Acceptability of condom availability in a U.S. jail

Studies have documented the transmission of HIV in incarcerated populations resulting from injection drug use or sexual activity. Less than 1% of the jails and prisons in the United States allow inmates access to condoms, and none allows access to needles. Results of a survey to measure the acceptability of a condom distribution program at the Washington, DC. Central Detention Facility, where condoms are available to inmates, are presented here. Three hundred seven inmates and 100 correctional officers were surveyed from October 2000 through October 2001. The surveys demonstrate that the program is generally supported and thought to be important by inmates and correctional staff. The program has not resulted in any major security infractions and could be replicated in other correctional settings.